Italy is a country that takes its food seriously. But it’s not just about dinner; lunchtime here is an experience in itself. From savoring fresh seafood on a boat to learning how to make authentic pasta, Italy offers a variety of ways to enjoy a memorable midday meal. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine scenic settings with local flavors, like sailing along Sardinian coastlines or participating in hands-on cooking classes in Tuscany. For example, the La Maddalena Arcipelago sailing tour blows past the typical lunch break by offering a full-on adventure with swimming, snorkeling, and a delicious onboard meal. These experiences give travelers a taste of Italy’s natural beauty and culinary richness all in one go.
Italy’s lunch tours cover a wide range—from luxury boat trips and guided island explorations to cooking lessons in historic farm estates. Whether you want to relax on a boat with drinks in hand or learn the secrets of Italian pasta, there is something here for every taste and travel style. Below, we’ve compiled the 15 best lunch experiences, each with its own unique appeal, so you can find the perfect midday treat.
1. La Maddalena Arcipelago: Sailing boat tour with lunch
Sail with this 6-hour sailing yacht tour around Sardinia’s stunning Maddalena Archipelago, visiting three islands: Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi. The highlight is swimming in crystal-clear waters and snorkeling among colorful fishes. The tour includes a delicious onboard lunch and drinks, all while enjoying panoramic views. It’s perfect for travelers who love water, scenery, and a touch of adventure. The tour is well-rated at 5/5 from 99 reviews, with many praising the intimate, relaxed atmosphere and the chance to see Spiaggia Rosa, one of the world’s most unique beaches. Expect a balanced mix of swimming, exploring, and relaxing on deck.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice if you want a full day of sea, sand, and flavor, with the convenience of a guided boat experience.
2. Tour of the islands of the archipelago with lunch and drinks
This 7-hour sailing adventure offers a comprehensive exploration of Sardinia’s archipelago, with lunch, snacks, and drinks included. Departing from Il Porticciolo, you’ll visit Cala Santa Maria with guided tours, swimming, and snorkeling, plus a stop at Piscine di Budelli for an aperitif and wine. The tour is praised for its friendly, professional crew and its ability to create lasting memories. You’ll also visit Spargi for about 45 minutes before heading back. It’s ideal for those who love marine activities and want to experience Sardinian waters with a relaxed, social vibe.
Bottom line: An excellent value for a full day at sea with excellent food, drinks, and plenty of scenic stops.
3. Palmarola: Boat tour with lunch on board
Starting from Ponza, this 6-hour boat tour offers a chance to admire Palmarola’s breathtaking cliffs and caves. The tour includes snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the boat with drinks and aperitifs. A highlight is the onboard lunch, which is included in the €45.55 price, and the opportunity to enjoy the views of this unspoiled island. The reviews mention how the friendly crew makes the experience enjoyable, with many noting the opportunity to explore hidden coves and enjoy the sea breeze. Perfect for travelers who want a laid-back day with swimming, sightseeing, and good food.
Bottom line: Great for budget travelers wanting a scenic, laid-back day with plenty of water activities.
4. Cooking Class: Italian Authentic Recipes with Lunch
In Tuscany, you can roll up your sleeves at a local Chianti estate to learn authentic Italian recipes from a professional chef. This 3-hour hands-on cooking class includes preparing dishes like pasta, paired with a wine tasting of Poggio ai Laghi wines, oils, and vinegars. After cooking, you enjoy a full course lunch with what you made, making this perfect for foodies eager to take home culinary skills. The reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to learn traditional techniques. It’s ideal for travelers interested in culinary immersion and local wine culture.
Bottom line: A fun, engaging experience for those who want to learn and eat in the heart of Tuscany’s wine country.
5. Cagliari: Mari Pintau Sailing Trip with Lunch & Snorkeling
This 8-hour sailing adventure along Sardinian coast takes you to Mari Pintau—”painted beach”—for swimming and snorkeling above a sunken anchor. You’ll sail on a 14-meter Bavaria yacht, enjoying authentic Sardinian food and local wine onboard. The itinerary includes stops at coves, photo opportunities, and relaxing under the sun. Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, travelers love the chance to see the wild beauty of the Gulf of Angels and enjoy authentic local flavors. It’s suited for those who want a mix of sea, sun, and local culture without strenuous activity.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for a full day of sailing and snorkeling with a focus on local flavors and scenery.
6. Gioia del Colle: Light Lunch and Wine Tasting in the Cellar
For a more relaxed, wine-focused experience, this 1.5-hour tour offers a light lunch paired with tasting 5 local wines after visiting a winery and farm in Apulia. It’s suited for wine lovers looking for a quick but authentic insight into Puglia’s wine culture. The tour stresses the importance of local products and the farm setting, making for an authentic, flavorful experience.
Bottom line: A concise, flavorful option for wine enthusiasts wanting to combine tasting and local cuisine.
7. Typical experience in Monferrato: winery tour, tasting, and lunch
This 3.5-hour experience immerses you in Monferrato’s wine and food scene, with a visit to a historic winery, tasting 3 wines, and enjoying a traditional lunch of local dishes. It caters to those interested in wine and regional cuisine, with a focus on authentic, high-quality products. The reviews note the friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn about local winemaking traditions.
Bottom line: Ideal for wine and food lovers wanting a balanced, authentic taste of Piedmont.
8. Classic: Tuscan Vineyard Old Jeep Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch
This 2-hour off-road Jeep tour takes you through the Tuscan vineyards, ending with a lunch pairing local wines with Tuscan appetizers. Led by a wine expert, you’ll learn about local wines, oils, and vinegars. The experience combines scenic drives with culinary tasting, making it perfect for those who want a taste of Tuscany’s landscape and wine culture in a short time.
Bottom line: A quick but immersive way to explore Tuscany’s wine and scenery with added local flavor.
9. Lake Como: 6-Hour Private Tour With Lunch Break
For a more personalized experience, this 6-hour private tour of Lake Como includes scenic boat rides, visits to villas, and a lunch at a top local restaurant. The itinerary is flexible, with options for walking, sightseeing, and cruising. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a tailored, intimate experience on Italy’s most famous lake.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking exclusivity and personalized attention, combined with great scenery and good food.
10. Light Lunch “Ad Hoc di San Gimignano” – Palagetto winery
Here, you’ll taste San Gimignano DOC red wine paired with local cold cuts, pecorino cheese, and pasta with Cinta Senese ragù. The short 1-hour experience is ideal for a quick immersion in Tuscany’s flavorful products, all in a historic setting. The reviews reflect appreciation for the authentic regional flavors and the chance to enjoy a relaxed tasting.
Bottom line: Perfect for a brief, delicious taste of Tuscan wines and bites.
11. Mongrando: Horseback Ride with Lunch or Dinner
This 3-hour horseback ride through Mongrando’s forest is a unique way to combine outdoor activity with local food. After learning the basics of riding, you’ll enjoy a lunch or dinner with local products or pizza. The experience is suited for active travelers who want a scenic ride paired with conviviality.
Bottom line: A good pick for those who want outdoor adventure and a hearty meal afterward.
12. Morcone: Olive Oil Tasting and Cooking Class with Lunch
Set on a family-run organic farm, this 4-hour experience combines a guided olive oil tasting, wild herb gathering, and a cooking class. You’ll prepare a traditional soup with the herbs you gather and enjoy a convivial lunch. It’s ideal for those interested in culinary skills and rural life. The opportunity to learn about extra virgin olive oils and wild herbs makes this memorable.
Bottom line: A hands-on, authentic experience for food lovers and curious cooks.
13. Ponza: Boat Tour with Lunch Onboard
This 6-hour boat trip explores Ponza’s bays, with stops for snorkeling, swimming, and seafood lunch onboard. The open bar adds to the relaxed vibe, while the seafood offerings, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, cater to different tastes. The itinerary includes visits to Grotte di Pilato and Chiaia di Luna. The reviews commend the friendly crew and the chance to see Ponza’s best spots from the water.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for seafood lovers and those seeking a luxury sea day with plenty of swimming and snorkeling.
14. Soriano nel Cimino: Studio visit with an artist + lunch in the home-studio
In this intimate 4-hour experience, you visit artist Gregor Becker’s home studio to see his work and watch a live demo of paper mosaics. Afterwards, enjoy a lunch or dinner in his home-studio, chatting about art and life. It’s ideal for art lovers seeking a personal, behind-the-scenes look at creative process in a charming Italian town.
Bottom line: A unique, cultural experience perfect for those interested in art and authentic rural Italy.
15. MONTALCINO: Pasta Class with Brunello Tasting and Lunch
In Montalcino, learn to make traditional Tuscan pasta during this hands-on class, then enjoy a meal paired with Brunello di Montalcino wines. The class includes making handmade pasta, tasting three wines, and visiting the historic cellar. It’s well-suited for food and wine enthusiasts eager to combine culinary skills with regional wines. The experience offers a great balance of learning, tasting, and culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want an immersive, delicious day combining cooking and wine.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Italy
When selecting the ideal lunch tour, consider your interests and travel style. Want to lounge on a boat with swimming and snorkeling? The La Maddalena sailing or Ponza boat trips are excellent. Looking for a culinary hands-on experience? The Tuscan cooking class or Pasta class in Montalcino will teach you new skills and deepen your appreciation for regional flavors. For wine lovers, the Gioia del Colle and Monferrato winery tours combine tasting with scenic visits. Budget and timing are also key—some experiences are full-day adventures, while others are short tastings. Book early, especially for popular tours like the Lake Como private trip, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Italy offers an astonishing variety of lunch experiences—from sailing amidst sparkling waters to mastering pasta in Tuscany. If you’re after relaxation and scenic beauty, the Palmarola boat tour or Ponza boat trip might be your best bets. For those who prefer a culinary hands-on approach, the Tuscan cooking class or Montalcino pasta experience can be truly rewarding.
No matter your preference, Italy’s lunch offerings promise a delightful blend of local flavors, stunning scenery, and memorable experiences. Be sure to book early and choose what suits your pace—whether that’s floating on a yacht or rolling pasta in Tuscany. Enjoy your Italian midday feast!
